Yellowknife – Canada’s 2023 wildfire season was the most destructive ever recorded. It resulted in widespread evacuations, loss of personal property and businesses, and damage to critical infrastructure. During the 2023 wildfire season, Indigenous governments and organizations stepped up to support communities their communities during evacuations in the Northwest Territories, which forced 70% of the population from their homes. The Government of Canada is working closely with Indigenous partners in the NWT to ensure resources are in place to manage future emergencies.
Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories, on behalf of Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, announced $15 million to support Indigenous governments and organizations in the Territory impacted by the 2023 wildfire season, to reimburse them for expenses incurred supporting their members. In providing this funding, the Government of Canada recognizes that Indigenous governments and organizations know best how to serve their communities.
Canada is working with Indigenous organizations in the North to support emergency responses and preparedness and together toward a healthy and resilient Northern environment.
“Northern communities are bearing an incredible burden of the impacts of climate change. The 2023 wildfires that the Northwest Territories experienced were a stark reminder of these destructive impacts of climate change for Northerners. This funding reflects Canada’s commitment to helping Northwest Territories communities recover from their worst-ever wildfire season. The funding will support Indigenous governments and organizations who stepped up to provide aide and shelter to their evacuated neighbours to ensure they can continue to be there for future emergencies.” – Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs
“When our communities were evacuated this summer, we really saw everyone banding together to help get people out safely. Now we want to make sure that Indigenous partners aren’t negatively impacted as a result of providing culturally-appropriate supports during those challenging times. This funding will help ensure they can continue to operate and provide for their communities and membership as they build back better.” – Michael McLeod, MP for the Northwest Territories